Here’s a Healthy Pickled Beets Recipe that’s easy to make, naturally sweetened, and loaded with nutrients. 🥗💜 Perfect for salads, grain bowls, or just eating straight from the jar!
🥄 Healthy Pickled Beets Recipe (No Refined Sugar!)
Pickled beets are not only delicious and vibrant, but they’re also great for gut health, rich in antioxidants, and packed with flavor. This version is healthy, quick-pickled, and uses natural sweeteners instead of refined sugar — ideal for clean eating or anyone looking to level up their veggie game!
🧾 Ingredients
Makes about 2–3 jars | Prep time: 15 mins | Chill time: 24 hours
For the Beets:
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4 medium fresh beets, trimmed and scrubbed
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Water for boiling or roasting
For the Pickling Brine:
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1 cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
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1/2 cup water
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1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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Optional add-ins:
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2 cloves garlic (smashed)
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1/2 tsp mustard seeds or dill seeds
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A sprig of fresh dill or rosemary
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A pinch of chili flakes for a little kick
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🔥 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beets
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Boil Method: Place beets in a pot, cover with water, and simmer for 30–40 minutes until fork-tender.
OR
Roast Method: Wrap beets in foil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 45–50 minutes until soft. -
Let them cool slightly, then peel (the skins should slide off easily). Slice or cube as desired.
Step 2: Make the Brine
In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, honey or maple syrup, salt, and any spices. Bring to a gentle simmer, stir to dissolve the honey, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Pack & Pickle
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Place sliced beets in clean jars. Add garlic or herbs if using.
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Pour the warm brine over the beets, covering them completely.
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Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature, then refrigerate.
Step 4: Chill & Enjoy
Let the pickled beets chill in the fridge for at least 24 hours (best after 2–3 days) for the flavors to develop.
🧊 Storage
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Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
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Use clean utensils to remove beets to keep them fresh longer.
🥗 How to Use Pickled Beets
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In salads with goat cheese, walnuts, and greens
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On grain bowls or avocado toast
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As a side dish with grilled meats or plant-based proteins
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Blended into hummus or dressings
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Straight from the jar with a fork (no judgment 😄)
💡 Tips & Variations
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For no sweetener, skip honey/maple — the beets are naturally sweet!
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Use golden beets for a beautiful color mix.
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Want it spicy? Add jalapeño slices or chili flakes to the brine.
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Add thin-sliced red onion to the jar for bonus flavor.